2019 Academy Awards: A Celebration of Creatives

I’ve watched the Academy Awards plenty of times over the years. This year was the first year I was drawn to the awards for a different reason. For the first time ever, I watched the awards as a writer.

There were several times I actually teared up watching visionaries and executors accept awards. People being recognized for work that is years, decades, or often a lifetime in the making. Long hours of edits and retakes being acknowledged in front of the world. To think an idea can go to a written script, to a screen play then acted, styled, costumed, directed, produced, scored into what we see on screen. As a normal person sharing my story everyday, I hold so much joy in my heart to watch people earn the ability to share their stories and ideas with the world.

In 2017, I attended the Library of Congress National Book Festival when I meet Angie Thomas, author of the book ‘The Hate U Give”. Since then, the book has turned into a critically acclaimed movie. The very talented young actress Amandla Stenber who played the lead Starr, was interviewed on the red carpet and shared how it was an honor to bring Angie’s work to life. During the show, Amandla presented the movie Green Book with Congressman John Lewis! It was a powerful moment.

I was so touched by Lady Gaga and her accomplishment last night. As she tearfully accepted her Oscar, she said “if you’re sitting home on your couch watching this now, this is hard work. It’s not about winning. It’s about not giving up. Even when you are rejected and beat down, find the power to rise up and keep fighting.” So inspiring.

To see Hampton University’s own, Ruth Carter take the Oscar for best costume design in Black Panther. The first person she thanked was Spike Lee for giving her a chance all those years ago. Speaking of Spike Lee, after 5 nominations, he WON last night for Best Adapted Screenplay.

Finally, Black Panther took home 3 awards. Ryan Coogler created such a powerful platform for Black Excellence. He must be so proud to put together a SQUAD OF WINNERS! His vision lead a global movement! WAKANDA FOREVER!